CPU Chip Packaging

Over the development time of the computer, several different designs of packaging for
the CPU chip die have been used. Each type of packaging has its advantages and disadvantages.
Today's most advanced CPUs come in the LGA (Land Grid Array) package, but lets review
some common packages that might still be in use.

DIP

A DIP chip package has two parallel rows of pins (Dual In-line Pins). This package was developed in the
1960s because no transistor package could handle the number of connections required by integrated
circuits. The package's pins were inserted into through-holes on a printed circuit board and then
soldered. This was a good package for prototyping because the pins could also be inserted into a socket.

PGA

When processor with larger width data buses were developed, the DIP package could not handle the
number of connections required. The PGA (Pin Grid Array) aleviated this problem by allowing pins
to be arranged in an array on the underside of the package.

PGAs pins were sometimes inserted into through-holes on a printed circuit board and then soldered,
but it was common to mount CPU PGA's into special ZIF (Zero Insertion Force) sockets so that when
more powerful CPU's were released, the chip could be upgraded.

A "flip-chip" PGA has the die mounted on the top of the substrate to allow a heatsink to be placed
in closer contact with the die. The substrate was frequently made of ceramic to allow better conduction
of heat from the die.

BGA

The BGA (Ball Grid Array) was designed to lower the cost of CPU and computer motherboard manufacturing,
and at the same time improve reliability. With a BGA package, the pins are eliminated, replaced by tiny
copper pads, each with a tiny ball of solder held to it with tacky flux. The BGA is accurately held in place
while the printed circuit board is heated, forming soldered connections between the CPU and the circuit board.

Elimination of the pins saves the cost of the pins, plus pin connections are less reliable than
directly soldered connections.